Stadium plan within QC Circle ‘inappropriate,’ says lawmaker

THE chairman of the House Committee on Metro Manila Development on Wednesday expressed her opposition to a proposal to build a coliseum within the grounds of the Quezon Memorial Circle (QMC), saying that the construction of a sports arena in the site is simply “inappropriate.”

Quezon City Rep. and panel chairman Winnie Castelo said that building such a massive structure in QMC would wreak havoc on the trees and other plant life in the park that has also served as a respite ground from the daily grind of Quezon City residents.

“The place would not be appropriate. It would compromise the beauty of the place as serene and tranquil,” Castelo said in a news statement.

Quezon City Rep. Vincent Crisologo said he plans to build an auditorium at the QMC. Crisologo is currently running for Quezon City mayor against incumbent Vice Mayor Joy Belmonte.

According to Crisologo, the QMC has sufficient space to accommodate an auditorium.

While cities like Manila, Caloocan, San Juan and Makati have their own large sports auditoriums and basketball stadiums, he said. Quezon City does not have one, he argued.

“There is no general planning. So I think we should replan the circle,” Crisologo added. Passive park

CASTELO, however, said that QMC is a passive park designed for walking and promenade.

“The real purpose of that park is for tranquility and serenity. It’s a passive park where park-goers can promenade,” he added.

Castelo also noted that the place is sacred, as it is where the remains of former President Manuel L. Quezon are buried.